Sienna Gonzalez

Synthesis of 2D High Entropy Perovskite Oxides for Electrocatalysis

Bio:

Sienna Gonzalez is a first year Materials Science PhD student, co-advised by Prof. Ryan Richards and Prof. Ryan O’Hayre. She obtained her undergraduate degree in Chemistry at Mines and is looking forward to sticking around in Golden! In her undergraduate work, Sienna explored mixed metal oxides (including Ca/MgO hybrids) with controlled faceting, composition, and porosity for the application of carbon capture under Prof. Ryan Richards. Now, she is working on the adaptation of solgel methods for the synthesis of high entropy perovskites, useful in Solid Oxide Fuel Cells. Sienna hopes to one day become a professor, serving as a role model for Hispanic students and other underrepresented groups in the STEM field. In her free time, she loves hiking, crocheting, and listening to Kpop (BTS and TXT)!

Abstract:

Due to the military’s growing need for field-dispatchable, silent, reliable, and efficient power sources, the Department of Defense has been investing in the development of next-generation solid-state electrochemical devices, including solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) and electrolysis cells. The goal of this project is to develop novel coke and sulfur-resistant perovskite electrocatalysts that can catalyze both oxidation and reduction reactions for electrochemical energy conversion and storage applications. This work leverages recent developments in two-dimensional (2D) materials and high entropy perovskite oxides (HEPs). These 2D HEP electrocatalysts will offer unique morphologies, ultra-high surface area, exceptional stability, tailored control of surface-site activity and redox reversibility, promising to revolutionize the field of electrochemical catalysis.